Sporting – Atletico Madrid

Sporting tried to be as competitive as possible in the first game away to Madrid, but the side stood defeated with a 2:0 result against simply more experienced and resilient hosts.

Team from Madrid took the lead already in first minute via Koke, while Griezmann doubled up the lead in 40th minute, in a game that was bit more equal than what the final result says. Hosts were better in the first halftime, but the second one was rather balanced one however without goal score chance.

As for the domestic league they come from a 2:0 victory at home against Ferreira as the side bounced back after defeat against Braga thanks to goals from Ruiz and Dost last weekend. Thanks to this victory, they have kept the third position and are now five points behind second placed Porto but also with three more than fourth placed Braga.

Atletico Madrid exploited their home advantage in the best possible manner as the side somehow didn’t have to work a lot for their lead against Sporitng and once the Portuguese tried to attack, they were vulnerable at the back.

As for the LaLiga, they come from a very interesting and important local derby game against Real Madrid on last Saturday’s evening where the side managed to pull out a point in a 1:1 draw away from home. There’s no doubt that Real have been way more threatening and controlling the ball.

However, visiting goalkeeper Oblak and his defense did the proper job, trying to look as threatening as possible in counter attacks. Ronaldo brought the hosts into the deserved lead, however Griezmann leveled up few minutes later in 57th minute.

With this point, Atletico remained at second position having now three points more than third placed Valencia while the title race practically stands over with Barcelona having eleven points more with seven rounds till the end.

Central back Jose Gimenez (20/1) and right back Sime vrsaljko (16/0) are both doubtful for now. Injured and out remains left back Filipe Luis (17/1).

Atletico have scored at least 2 goals in their last 3 matches (UEFA Europa League).

Sporting now has a very difficult task as the side needs to start attacking from the first minute, while the Spaniards are very difficult side to break. Moreover, they do more than well on counter attacks and that’s what I believe will be their biggest weapon. Having that in mind, another victory for Atletico seems quite likely this time.